The present line of research seeks to establish:
1. A clear distinction between warning signs of abuse and psychologically, sexually, and physically abusive behaviors
2. Warning signs that have predictive validity and that people can see in early stages of relationships, before investments are made and barriers to leaving become difficult to overcome
3. An understanding of when violence first emerges in romantic relationships, and what patterns of early violence may look like
It also seeks to inform:
1. Primary prevention campaigns that effectively educate the public on what warning signs look like and how to respond to them (both in their own relationships and those of friends and family)